At Mind Body Co-op the diagnosis & treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) typically involves a combination of behavioral, educational, and medical interventions. The specific treatment plan will vary depending on the individual’s age, symptoms, and needs.

Have you wondered if you have Adult ADHD/ADD? 

Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may exhibit symptoms similar to those seen in children, but they can manifest differently due to the developmental changes that occur with age. It’s important to recognize that many individuals with ADHD may have developed coping mechanisms that mask some of their symptoms. The symptoms of adult ADHD can be categorized into two main groups: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

1. Inattention Symptoms:

• Difficulty in sustaining attention: Adults with ADHD may struggle to concentrate on tasks, lose focus easily, and frequently make careless mistakes at work or in other activities.
• Poor organizational skills: Difficulty in organizing tasks, managing time, and keeping track of personal and professional responsibilities.
• Forgetfulness: Frequent forgetfulness of appointments, deadlines, or where they put their personal belongings.
• Procrastination: A tendency to delay tasks and often struggle with initiating and completing them.
• Difficulty in following through: Difficulty in completing tasks, even those they find less interesting or tedious.
• Poor time management: Often running late, underestimating the time required for tasks, and struggling to meet deadlines.
• Disorganization: Difficulty in keeping living spaces, work areas, and personal belongings organized.
• Frequent changes of focus: Jumping from one task or activity to another without completing them.

2. Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms:

• Restlessness: A constant need to be on the move or feeling internally restless, which may manifest as tapping one’s feet or fingers.
• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking about the consequences can lead to risky behaviors and impulsive decision-making.
• Difficulty in waiting: Inability to wait in lines or for one’s turn, leading to impatience.
• Interrupting others: Frequently interrupting conversations or speaking over others.
• Talkativeness: Difficulty in controlling the volume and frequency of speech.
• Risky behaviors: Engaging in impulsively risky activities like excessive spending, substance abuse, or reckless driving.

It’s essential to understand that not everyone with adult ADHD will exhibit all these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary. Additionally, some adults may develop effective coping strategies that allow them to function relatively well in their daily lives.

Diagnosing adult ADHD can be more challenging because the symptoms may overlap with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Additionally, gender can affect the presentation of Adult ADD & ADHD. At Mind Body Co-op, our integrative treatment team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a clinical interview, self-report questionnaires, and input from family members or close associates. An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward developing an effective treatment plan, which may include behavioral strategies, medication, and other forms of support.

Here are some common approaches to the way we treat ADHD at Mind Body Co-op:

1. Behavioral Therapy:

• Behavioral therapy is often one of the first-line treatments for ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals with ADHD develop strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other psychotherapy techniques can help teach individuals with ADHD skills for managing impulsive behavior, improving focus, and developing better organizational and time management skills.

2. Medication:

• Medications are commonly used to manage the symptoms of ADHD. There are two main types of medications for ADHD: stimulant and non-stimulant medications.
• Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin) and amphetamine (e.g., Adderall), are often the first choice. They work by increasing the availability of certain neurotransmitters in the brain and can help improve attention and impulse control.
• Non-stimulant medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv), may be prescribed when stimulants are ineffective or cause undesirable side effects.

3. Education and Support:

• It’s essential for individuals with ADHD, as well as their families and teachers, to receive education and support.
•  Understanding the condition and its management can lead to better outcomes. We offer neuropsychological assessments to help clarify diagnoses and make recommendations. Children with ADHD may be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These services can provide additional support and accommodations in the school setting.
• Support groups and educational programs can be beneficial in providing guidance and a sense of community.

4. Environmental and Lifestyle Modifications:

• Creating an organized, structured environment can help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms more effectively. This includes establishing routines, using calendars or planners, and minimizing distractions.
• A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can also contribute to better symptom management.

5. Complementary and Alternative Treatments:

• Some people with ADHD may explore complementary or alternative treatments, such as dietary changes, mindfulness meditation, or neurofeedback. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before pursuing these options.

Contact us for an ADHD assessment